You recognize that drinking and driving is a crime that carries significant penalties. But you may face these penalties because it is difficult to know whether you exceeded the legal BAC limit before getting in your car and driving.
According to the Colorado Office of Legislative Legal Services, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content level at or above 0.08%. But because many factors can impact your BAC, it can be hard to tell if you have reached or exceeded this legal limit.
1. The rate of consumption
How quickly you drink directly impacts your BAC level and can indirectly affect your chances of getting arrested for drinking and driving. For example, your BAC level will be higher after drinking two alcoholic beverages in one hour than if you spread these two drinks over two hours.
2. Your weight and gender
Women typically reach higher BAC levels faster than men. Additionally, those who weigh less typically reach higher BAC levels faster than those who weigh more since there is more blood to dilute the alcohol.
3. Food in your stomach
I drink on an empty stomach, my BAC level will rise faster than if you ate before consuming alcohol. When there is food in the stomach, alcohol moves at a slower rate into the bloodstream.
If you drive with a BAC level at or above the legal limit, you could face penalties for this crime. These may include the requirement to pay a fine, spend time in jail or complete community service.